Not all cats are the same (Is that an understatement--or what?) and unlike moggies,* who embody many traits from their parents, each purebred feline exhibits unique habits that remain consistent through their lineage.

For instance, rag dolls go limp like their namesake and are pretty tolerant; Persians are cuddle specialists; while Siamese cats tend to be very vocal. My two feline pals (of Siamese heritage) seem to feel the need to highlight that fact.

Their move to a new inland home (from the ritzy but cold La Costa area) has catalyzed more outgoing behavior, and now they boss around their visitors—not just their owner. This does not mean they are any less selective, only that they have changed their approach. They seem to enjoy their new abode and play games with unsuspecting visitors—mostly those they already know.

When I first met them, they hid and did not enjoy visitors. Now they “pretend” to hide and dash or rush past the chosen few—over and over again. Their newest entertainment activity is “run from the visitors.” Elivia, their mistress {aka cat slave} and noted recording artist, says it is their game of “chase me.” Instead of just playing with Elivia, they now include their favorite visitors.

The duo becomes highly vocal during their games so you will know just where they are, and although they complain and seem to hunker down when stroked—they remain in place and sometimes complain more when the stroking stops! They also like to perch on the heater vent in the early am. If the household cat slaves do not turn on the heater early enough, delay in serving tidbits, or postpone the garden amble, a chorus of complaints begins.

My pal CE, an Amboigna king parrot, travels with me occasionally. She adores adventure and new sights. I think she loves how everyone exclaims, “Oh! She is so beautiful.” This trip we stopped to met up with a writer pal of me. Stephanie’s grandbaby Naomi met CE and the two considered each other for what seemed ages. I doubt either has remained that transfixed and quiet for that long of a time ever.

When we arrived at our final destination, I believe the cats decided that “Birdie TV” was the preferred activity of choice. Each took a turn and occupied the seat closest to CE and watched. CE watched, too. Nobody was in hunting or panic mode—they simply observed each other. I believe CE figured they were admiring her beautiful self, while the cats were convinced that she was simply there for entertainment. (Okay, so we never took the chance and left them unattended. I am an animal behaviorist—but not stupid!)

This was not CE’s first visit to the Melody household. Last time she escaped her travel cage and was meandering around the outdoor garden balcony—fortunately she did not make a fuss when asked to “step-up” and return to her abode. The cats thought it was great fun. Me, I was worried more about Junior (the white delinquent kitten from next door) and the tabby who jumped on my truck to observe CE through the window when we arrived and while I was unloading. Elivia’s two sophisti-cats were the last of my worries.

CE determined that “Kitty TV” was amusing, too. She also decided to play, “torment the roommate” while Elivia and I were out and about before my event. You know animals are like kids, they just seize the moment when it arises. Ultimately, we had a great trip, but it was great to arrive back home in time for the next snow flurries. I love when Mother Nature cooperates and I don’t have to deal with inclement weather while on the road.

*Moggies: English slang term for cats of mixed heritage.